Founded by Gulya and Ayse in September 2023, the Book Club was created as an opportunity for members of the Pilgrims’ community to come together every few weeks to discuss a chosen book. Since then, it has grown into so much more than a reading group. It has been a place of lively discussion, generous hospitality, fascinating international perspectives, delicious food, and, most importantly of all, lasting friendships.

As a member of staff at Pilgrims’, being part of the Book Club has been something of a revelation. Not only has it encouraged me to read titles I would never have considered picking up before, but it has also made me feel genuinely welcomed by our parent community. The international viewpoints shared at each meeting have been both enlightening and inspiring, reflecting one of the greatest strengths of our school: its rich cultural diversity. The books we have read together have often mirrored that diversity, taking us to different countries, cultures and experiences through the pages of a novel.

Although meetings were originally intended to take place in the Old Library, many generous members offered to host gatherings in their homes, and we have been treated to an extraordinary array of cuisine over the past three years. A cherished tradition soon emerged: considering where the book was set and enjoying food inspired by that place. Who could forget Heidi’s magnificent Malaysian banquet for The Gift of Rain, or Polina’s blinis, caviar and vodka for Crime and Punishment? We have also enjoyed Gulya’s wonderful Russian-themed spreads, complete with a samovar and traditional salads.

This year also marks the departure of our wonderful Gulya from the leadership of the group, as the Garside family move on to the next stage of their educational journey. Her vision, enthusiasm, kindness and dedication have been at the heart of the Book Club from the beginning, and we are enormously grateful for everything she has done to make it such a success.

As we look ahead to September, we would love to welcome new members. There is absolutely no pressure to attend every meeting; members are free to dip in and out as they like. The only requirements are a love of reading and a willingness to share ideas and conversation with fellow book lovers. It is also a great way to meet people/parents from different areas of the school. Attached is a snapshot of some of the titles we have tackled! We have no male Book Club members as yet – don’t be shy – join up! Maybe one day Mr Duncan will get his wish, and we’ll put a Bernard Cornwell on the menu!

The title chosen for summer holiday reading will be announced via the Book Club WhatsApp group: this will be available to join via a QR code which will be shared in the newsletter at the end of this term and the beginning of next term. 

We look forward to welcoming both familiar and new faces next year for more books, more conversation and more friendship.

Rowena Duncan
English and Drama Teacher